Canon has just announced their new compact EOS-M camera system, which features an 18 megapixel APS-C (dSLR-sized) sensor. The new camera is loaded with some fancy new tech -a 3″ touchscreen LCD, hybrid autofocus, 100-6400 expandable ISO, and new software settings and controls.

We have a Canon dSLR, and while it is phenomenal to use, it can be a bit of a pain, literally, to travel with and carry around on long days. We look forward to picking up mirrorless EOS-M once its released and prices drop. The preorder and launch price is currently set at $800, which is about what one would spend on a last-generation Rebel dSLR kit.

I decided not to buy one, but the decision was an easy one. As you mentioned, the reviews have been terrible. If/when I buy into mirrorless, I will likely look at Sony’s models most seriously.

I have a couple of pricey Canon EF lenses, but I really can’t see myself using them on the EOS-M as that defeats the purpose. If I’m going to have to buy compact lenses anyways, there’s no real reason for me to stick with Canon.

Canon’s dSLRs are a fine choice, and regardless of what media outlets like to say every year, SLRs aren’t going the way of the dinosaur. I am now on my third camera. At press events, shows, and even touristy places, larger SLRs and heavier lenses can be somewhat of a burden.

Maybe in the spring I will budget for a Sony mirrorless. I won’t really have confidence in a Canon EOS-M body until they come out with a 2nd or 3rd generation model. It seems that the 1st was rushed to market just so they had *something* after finally deciding to go mirrorless. The 2nd generation might be to fix issues and negatives from the 1st model, and the 3rd might be where their real innovations and efforts shine through.